Laura Alkire

The meeting commenced with summaries of executive sessions held on November 11th, which involved discussions on administrative positions, personnel matters, employee arbitration, and recommended employee termination. The consent agenda was subsequently approved. The Superintendent reported on school closings due to inclement weather, confirming that two snow days were used and subsequent closures would be virtual. Concerns regarding the phone system not reaching all community members for weather notifications were noted, with emphasis placed on checking the website and social media first. Significant time was dedicated to recognizing student achievements, including the digital holiday card winner from the Career Center, the elementary school winner, and the high school winner. Presentations were given by the United Way regarding the 'Stuff the Bus' initiative results for 2025, detailing the quantity of donated supplies and a monetary contribution check. Furthermore, Alageney High School's unified flag football team was recognized for their outstanding performance, winning both the skills competition and the five-on-five championship at the state level, and receiving a sportsmanship award. Finally, the offensive and defensive players of the game from the annual homecoming football match between Fort Hill and Alageney High School were recognized.

The meeting commenced with the formal call to order and the pledge of allegiance. Following this, executive session summaries for meetings held on October 14, 2025 (covering personnel recommendations, appointments, and employee arbitration) and November 5, 2025 (covering employee retirement and appointment of new administrative staff) were presented. The board then approved the consent agenda. A significant portion of the meeting involved an update from the transportation office regarding inclement weather procedures, detailing coordination with county roads, city contacts, and specific policies related to cold temperatures and bus operations. The board also recognized American Education Week with a proclamation thanking various staff members for their dedicated service. Furthermore, public comments addressed the financial strain and pay discrepancies for Instructional Support Assistants (IAS) and Educational Support Professionals (ESP), highlighting critical staffing shortages. Finally, the board conducted second readings and approved updates to policies concerning staff complaints (GBN), bullying, harassment, and intimidation (JBA), and policy K.

This document outlines Allegany County Public Schools' (ACPS) implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland's Future, a state initiative aimed at updating education funding and elevating the preK-12 education system to world-class levels. The plan is structured around five key pillars: Early Childhood Education, High-Quality and Diverse Teachers and Student Leaders, College and Career Readiness Pathways, More Resources to Ensure All Students Are Successful, and Governance and Accountability. ACPS's current efforts span 2021-2024, with a subsequent plan for 2024-2027, all contributing to the overall Blueprint timeline extending through 2032. The initiative seeks to ensure all students are college and career ready by the end of 10th grade, provide comprehensive support for students in need, and enhance accountability in educational outcomes.

The meeting included a call to order and a motion to move to executive session to discuss personnel matters, consult with legal counsel, and conduct administrative functions.

The meeting included summaries for executive sessions, a proclamation for school bus safety week, and principal appreciation month. The Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (CCAC) provided an update and presented shining star awards to recognize individuals making significant contributions to special education within the county's public schools. The CCAC aims to enhance services for students with disabilities and facilitate communication between families, educators, and community leaders.